After a disaster happens, there is a limited window to reach and engage supporters. It’s critical to act quickly.

If you wait for an emergency situation to happen, it’s too late. Be prepared with email templates, photographs and develop processes so you can quickly update web page / donation form content (this is not often the norm at many nonprofit organizations).

Emergency situations can impact any nonprofit, not just those that traditionally respond to disasters, such as the American Red Cross and Doctors Without Borders.

Online, social media and mobile are first response channels of choice in responding to a disaster.

Reliable people, processes and technology are critical.

Follow-up! Reaching out to constituents doesn’t end after you’ve sent an email appeal immediately after the disaster occurs.

Accountability is important; make sure donors are told how their funds have been used.